Today in Performance Sneaker History: Michael Jordan Wins First NBA Championship in the Air Jordan VI

Few will argue that Michael Jordan's legacy is the greatest of all time. With a laundry list of accomplishments, including two NBA Championship three-peats (earning Finals MVP in all six appearances), five NBA MVP honors, and the most successful signature shoe line of all time, Jordan is truly in a class of his own.

On June 12, 1991, Jordan proved the hype surrounding him was real as he led the Chicago Bulls to their first NBA Championship. Up 4-1 against the Los Angeles Lakers, Chicago closed out a close Game 5 with a 108-101 win. On this night, Scottie Pippen led the Bulls in scoring with 32 points, but it was Jordan's raging performance in the Finals that drove them to their first title. MJ ended up with 30 points and also dished out 10 assists, winning his first Finals MVP honor as well. The Bulls would win consecutive champions again in 1992 and 1993, wrapping up their first of two three-peats.

For the '91 postseason, Michael wore the Air Jordan VI "Infrared". Featuring visible Air cushioning, a translucent rubber outsole, and an inner sleeve for fit and support, the Air Jordan VI will always be remembered as the sneaker Mike captured his first championship in. Jordan Brand commemorated this achievement in 2006 with a special version of the Air Jordan VI in a "Defining Moments Pack". Since then, the Air Jordan VI has been re-released sporadically and is set for a retro run in 2014 as it enters its 23rd anniversary.